ROCHESTER — Charles Dickens’ timeless classic tale “A Christmas Carol” turns modern at the Rochester Opera House on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 20-22 at 7 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 22 and 23 at 2 p.m. The cast will trace the life of miserly Scrooge from his childhood in the 1940s through his adulthood in the late 20th century. Director Shay Willard weaves the magic of this beloved Christmas tale into a family-friendly story in a contemporary setting with the captivating sound of live, classic and modern music directed by Kathy Fink.

On Christmas Eve, Scrooge (Doug Decker) begrudgingly dismisses Cratchitt (Greg Bell), Fred (Noah Nelson) and the rest of his long-suffering employees, who are anxious to celebrate the joyous holiday season. Scrooge, alone with his bah-humbug self, receives a surprise visit by the ghost of his dead partner, Jacob Marley (Michael Turner). Marley must convince Scrooge not to follow his path to a dreary destiny. Jacob promises Scrooge a chance at redemption as he sends him on a journey through time - meeting blissful and terrifying spirits (Erin Roberts, Whitney Smith and Shay Willard) along the way, who all help to teach Scrooge the true meaning of Christmas.

Reserve tickets ($16/$14) online at www.rochesteroperahouse.com or call/stop by the box office (603) 335-1992, Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. or two hours before the show. This show is sponsored by Eastern Propane & Oil, WHOM 94.9, Foster’s Daily Democrat, Bank of NH, Studley Flower Gardens, Broadview Animal Hospital and Jeff St. Laurent & Service Now. The Rochester Opera House is located in City Hall, 31 Wakefield St. The season continues with All Shook Up (Elvis musical) Jan. 17-27, 2013.